The new iPad Pro 2021 is scheduled to launch next month, and Apple has now confirmed (via support documents discovered by MacRumors) that the 12.9-inch model is "functionally compatible" with the first-generation Magic Keyboard.

When Apple announced the redesigned Magic Keyboard for the new iPad Pro models at its Spring Loaded event, there was concern that the increased thickness of the 12.9-inch model would make the older keyboard accessory incompatible with the new tablet. There was concern that the increased thickness of the 12.9-inch model would make older keyboard accessories incompatible with the new tablet. However, this proved not to be the case.

The 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro is 5.9 mm thick, while the 2021 model is 6.4 mm thick. This means that the original Magic Keyboard will not fit snugly or fold up completely when used with the new iPad Pro.

While some iPad fans may be frustrated by the lack of a perfect fit, this cross-generational compatibility means that those with the Magic Keyboard will not have to pay an additional $299 / £279 / 449 Australian dollars for the new generation model.

Compatibility concerns were attributed at the time to the new 12.9-inch iPad Pro being slightly thicker than its predecessor, but this may be due to the new mini LED display (see why mini LEDs are a big deal for the iPad Pro). Now, Apple has upgraded its support documentation to clarify that the new thick-walled iPad Pro is technically compatible with the first-generation Magic Keyboard.

"The first-generation Magic Keyboard (A1998) is functionally compatible with the new iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) with Liquid Retina XDR display. Due to the slightly thicker dimensions of this new iPad Pro, the Magic Keyboard may not fit exactly when closed, especially with the screen protector attached.

Of course, if you don't want to put up with the funky fit of the old Magic Keyboard, Apple sells a new Magic Keyboard with the new iPad Pro.